Amsterdam-based PPG is to supply the Greek tanker and bulk carrier operator Enterprises Shipping & Trading (EST) with its Sigmaglide 1290 biocide-free silicone fouling release coating to improve the energy efficiency and reduce the carbon emissions of its entire existing fleet. EST says it selected the coating for its ability to reduce the frictional resistance of hull surfaces, which decreases power demand and related emissions.
PPG recently performed several studies in cooperation with leading independent marine institutes to measure the power and speed impact on vessels retrofitted with the Sigmaglide 1290 fouling release coating. Those tests are said to have determined that the coating provides a 20% reduction in power consumed at design level, and up to 35% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions when compared with traditional antifouling coatings.
EST vessels that have already been retrofitted with energy-efficiency technologies are said to be currently demonstrating a power reduction of more than 20%. According to the company, PPG Sigmaglide 1290 coating has been a major contributor to this performance.
“EST is a pioneer in energy-efficient operations and is committed to minimising its environmental impact,” says George Sarris, EST president. “Our investment in the Sigmaglide 1290 coating is a major contributor to our goals of achieving the maximum efficiency potential of our fleet and not only meeting, but exceeding the carbon reduction goals set by the International Maritime Organization.”
IMO’s greenhouse gas (GHG) strategy for the shipping industry calls for a reduction in carbon intensity of 40% by 2030 and 70% by 2050 as compared to 2008, as well as a reduction of total GHG emissions from shipping by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008. Silicone coatings are included among IMO’s published list of energy-efficiency technologies that can directly shift the power curve.
“Sigmaglide 1290 silicone coating can help shipowners comply with IMO regulations by contributing to a significant speed improvement and increased operational efficiency,” comments Ariana Psomas, PPG segment director, newbuilding and drydocking. “The coating’s ultra-smooth surface enables vessel operators to improve their speed and save on power consumption while also resisting even the most difficult fouling conditions.”
Sigmaglide 1290 is based on a pure silicone binder system, that uses enhanced dynamic surface regeneration technology to eliminate slime problems and increase fuel savings throughout service when compared to traditional fouling release products. It is also free of biocides, which were traditionally used to prevent fouling. As a result, this silicone resin-based fouling release coating is a non-toxic solution, harmless to marine life, PPG points out.
In one of the major studies undertaken recently, classification society DNV conducted research into the efficiency of vessels coated with Sigmaglide 1290. The analysis was performed on vessels of 11 and 15 years of age, whose performance in service was compared against the performance levels during sea trials. The research found that a sample of vessels coated with Sigmaglide 1290 demonstrated speed improvement, as well as very low speed loss during the operation.
